How do you average percentages?

Converting the percentages to decimals then finding the average of these figures and reconverting back to a percentage is the easiest way to do this. You need the percentages you wish to average, paper, a pencil and a calculator.

1. Write down the percentages

   In order to stay organized, it is helpful to have the list of the percentages written down on a piece of paper in front of you. This allows for the process of finding the average easier as you make calculations.

2. Change each percentage to a decimal

   To simplify calculations, change each percentage to a decimal. This is done by individually dividing the percentages by 100. You may find using your calculator easier and more accurate than performing the math in your head, but either method works. Write down the decimal number after each percentage on your paper.

3. Add the total number of percentages

   Count how many percentages you are working with and record this number on your paper for ease of reference. This number is important in finding an average percent.

4. Calculate the total of the percentages

   Add the decimals of all the percentages together. This number will be used along with the number of individual percentages to find the average.

5. Find the average percentage

   Take the total amount of the decimals, and divide that number by the total number of individual percentages. This gives you the average percentage in decimal form.

6. Change from a decimal to a percent

   Take the average percentage in decimal form, and multiply the number by 100. This gives you the average percentage in percent form.